SITHCCC029-Learner-Guide-V1 0 PDF v1 0
SITHCCC029-Learner-Guide-V1 0 PDF v1 0
SITHCCC029-Learner-Guide-V1 0 PDF v1 0
Table of Contents
Activity 2B .......................................................................................................................................... 51
2.3 – Use equipment safely and hygienically according to manufacturer instructions......................... 52
Using equipment safely and hygienically according to manufacturer instructions........................... 52
Activity 2C .......................................................................................................................................... 54
3. Portion and prepare ingredients .................................................................................................. 55
3.1 – Sort and assemble ingredients according to food production sequencing .................................. 56
Sorting and assembling ingredients ................................................................................................... 56
Mise en place ..................................................................................................................................... 56
Sequencing ......................................................................................................................................... 57
Activity 3A .......................................................................................................................................... 59
3.2 – Weigh and measure ingredients according to recipe ................................................................... 60
Weighing and measuring ingredients according to the recipe .......................................................... 60
Scales.................................................................................................................................................. 61
Measuring jugs ................................................................................................................................... 63
Measuring spoons .............................................................................................................................. 64
Conversion ......................................................................................................................................... 65
Portions .............................................................................................................................................. 66
Activity 3B .......................................................................................................................................... 67
3.3 – Clean and cut ingredients as required using basic culinary cuts according to culinary standards 68
Cleaning and cutting ingredients as required .................................................................................... 68
Basic culinary cuts .............................................................................................................................. 69
Activity 3C .......................................................................................................................................... 73
3.4 – Minimise waste to maximise profitability of food items prepared .............................................. 74
Minimising waste to maximise profitability....................................................................................... 74
Waste from the kitchen ..................................................................................................................... 75
Waste from the menu ........................................................................................................................ 76
Activity 3D .......................................................................................................................................... 77
4. Prepare stocks, sauces, and soups ............................................................................................... 78
4.1 – Follow standard recipes, select and use cookery methods to prepare stocks, sauces and soups 79
Selecting and using cooking methods according to recipes .............................................................. 79
Stocks ................................................................................................................................................. 79
Sauces ................................................................................................................................................ 82
Soups .................................................................................................................................................. 85
Activity 4A .......................................................................................................................................... 90
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Unit of Competency
Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare various stocks,
sauces and soups following standard recipes. It requires the ability to select and prepare ingredients,
and to use relevant equipment and cookery and food storage methods.
The unit applies to cooks working in hospitality and catering organisations. This could include
restaurants, educational institutions, health establishments, defence forces, cafeterias, kiosks, cafes,
residential caterers, in flight and other transport caterers, and event and function caterers.
It applies to individuals who work with very little independence and under close supervision and
guidance of more senior chefs. They follow predefined organisational procedures and report any
discrepancies to a higher level staff member for action.
The skills in this qualification must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory
legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time
of publication.
Pre-requisite Unit
SITXFSA005
Unit Sector
Hospitality
Page |6
Performance Criteria
Element Performance Criteria
Elements describe the Performance criteria describe the performance needed to
essential outcomes. demonstrate achievement of the element.
1.3 Identify and select ingredients for stocks, sauces and soups
from stores according to recipe, quality, freshness and stock
rotation requirements
2. Select, prepare, and 2.1 Select type and size of equipment suitable to requirements
use equipment
2.2 Safely assemble and ensure cleanliness of equipment before
use
3. Portion and prepare 3.1 Sort and assemble ingredients according to food production
ingredients sequencing
4. Prepare stocks, sauces 4.1 Follow standard recipes, select and use cookery methods to
and soups prepare stocks, sauces and soups
4.5 Make derivations from basic sauces, both hot and cold
where required
5. Present and store 5.1 Reconstitute or re-thermalise stocks, sauces and soups to
stocks, sauces and required consistencies
soups
5.2 Present soups and sauces attractively on appropriate service-
ware, using garnishes according to standard recipes
5.5 Clean work area and dispose of or store surplus and reusable
by-products according to organisational procedures,
environmental considerations, and cost reduction initiatives
Page |8
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the
performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
o locate and read date codes and rotation labels on food products.
Assessment Requirements
Performance Evidence
Evidence of the ability to complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit in
the context of the job role, and:
o fish stock
o vegetable stock
o following procedures for portion control and food safety practices when handling
and storing different food types
➢ Follow standard recipes to prepare each of the following sauces at least once:
o béchamel sauce:
▪ mornay
▪ demi-glace
▪ jus
o Hollandaise sauce
o Bearnaise sauce
▪ pepper
▪ mushroom
o sauce tomate
o beurre Blanc
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o velouté:
▪ chicken
▪ fish
o coulis
o mayonnaise
➢ Follow standard recipes to prepare each of the following soups at least once:
o consommé
o broth
o purée
o cream
o bisque
o chilled soup
o following procedures for portion control and food safety practices when handling
and storing different food types
Knowledge Evidence
➢ Culinary terms and trade names for ingredients commonly used in the production of
different stocks, sauces and soups relating to:
o convenience products
o thickening agents
o service style
o taste
o texture
▪ clear
▪ fat-free
▪ smell
▪ taste
➢ Appropriate environmental conditions for storing stock, sauces and soups products to:
➢ Safe operational practices using essential functions and features of equipment used to
produce stocks, sauces and soups.
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Assessment Conditions
➢ An industry workplace; or
o commercial:
▪ blender
▪ food processor
▪ freezer
o sink
o storage facilities:
▪ shelving
▪ trays
➢ Small equipment:
o cutting boards
o grater
▪ sharpening steel
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▪ sharpening stone
o knives:
▪ chef's knife
▪ utility knife
o measures:
▪ measuring jugs
▪ measuring spoons
o mouli
o muslin cloths
▪ fry pans
o scales
o service-ware:
▪ crockery
o small utensils:
▪ sieve
▪ scraper
▪ spatula
▪ whisk
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o thermometer
o cleaning cloths
o commercial cleaning and sanitising agents and chemicals for cleaning commercial
kitchens, equipment and food storage areas
o tea towels
➢ Organisational specifications:
➢ Diverse and comprehensive range of perishable food supplies for producing stocks,
sauces and soups specified in the performance evidence.
Assessors must satisfy the Standards for Registered Training Organisations' requirements for assessors
and:
and
➢ Have worked in industry for at least three years where they have applied the skills and
knowledge of this unit of competency.
Links
1. Select ingredients
1.1. Confirm food production requirements from standard recipes.
1.3. Identify and select ingredients for stocks, sauces, and soups from stores according to recipe,
quality, freshness and stock rotation requirements.
Deadlines
It is important to find out when dishes need to be ready for, so that you know when to start preparing
fruit, vegetable, and farinaceous ingredients. Customers and guests will expect a timely service, so your
time management skills will be required regularly.
For example, if you are preparing food for a wedding reception, you will need to find out time when
guests arrive. If they arrive at 3, for example, you may need to start preparation in the morning,
depending on how many guests are expected and how much food is required.
Portion sizes
You will need to know how big portion sizes should be for the recipe you are preparing. This will affect
how many ingredients you need and how long you require to prepare and cook them.
Customer requests
Another point that will affect food production requirements is customer requests and needs. You will
regularly receive individual customer requests, which may be based on individual preferences, or
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specialised dietary requirement, such as allergies. For example, you may have to offer an option which
is gluten free for any coeliac customers/guests.
Food preparation lists help to improve organisation and efficiency in the kitchen, while recipes provide
specific instructions for the preparation of ingredients and foods. They are important because when
chefs know what they have to do at all times, they are much more likely to be prepared for service. They
also help chefs to react more effectively to unforeseen events, deal with problems with more
confidence and complete tasks using their own initiative.
Photo sources:
Two Men Preparing Food Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Chef Cooking in the Kitchen Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 1A
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➢ Explain the two-fold process for scaling a recipe for non-multiple servings.
Scaling
Scaling is the technique of adjusting ingredient amounts in order to cater for more or fewer people than
the recipe serves.
In general, scaling ingredients in a recipe up or down is fairly simple. For example, you may need to
double, treble, or halve the amounts simply. However, the scaling of ingredients will become more
complex if the number of people the recipe serves and the number of people you need to serve is not
multiple.
Luckily, although this type of scaling may be more taxing, there is a calculation method for adjusting
ingredient amounts to meet requirements, no matter what ingredient quantities the recipe calls for.
➢ Multiply the 'per person' measure for each ingredient by the number of people you
need to serve.
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This standardised recipe serves four. But service requirements may call for 15 portions; the recipe must
be adjusted accordingly.
Step 1: divide each ingredient quantity to establish the 'per person' amount
In this example, each ingredient amount must be divided by 4 as this is the number of people the recipe
serves. This is straightforward when dividing amounts (such as 100g), but you will need to work in
fractions or decimals when dividing whole batches (such as chilli).
Step 2: multiply the 'per person' quantities by the number of servings required
To adjust the recipe correctly, the values calculated in step 1 must be multiplied by the number of
portions/people to be served, which in this example is 15.
6.25g butter x 15 = 93.75g butter (this would be rounded to the nearest gramme, which would be 94g)
Reasonable rounding
As with the above example, some values end up in decimal or fractional amounts. As kitchen measuring
equipment is usually not precise enough to accurately measure a tenth of a gramme, it is sometimes
necessary to round to the nearest whole gramme or item.
For instance, you may decide to use 4 whole chillies rather than 3 ¾ stipulated in the scaled recipe. If
you are required to round, it should be to a reasonably near amount and should be confirmed with the
head chef if you are unsure.
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Photo sources:
Chef Preparing Dumplings on a Bamboo Steamer Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Chef Preparing Vegetable Dish on Tree Slab Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Close-up of Fruit Salad in Plate Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Bowl of Shrimp Soup on Brown Wooden Surface Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 1B
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1.3 – Identify and select ingredients for stocks, sauces, and soups from stores
according to recipe, quality, freshness, and stock rotation requirements
By the end of this chapter, the learner should be able to:
➢ Briefly explain the meaning of stock rotation and summarise how stock rotation
methods are utilised in their own establishment or environment known to them
➢ Provide a brief explanation of the different types of date labels on food packaging and
describe how to use the information to identify and select products for quality and
freshness
➢ Explain how to ensure the products selected from stores are suitable for the recipe
➢ Explain how to determine products are fresh and of good quality when selecting them
from stores.
It should go without saying that when you choose the ingredients for stocks, sauces and soups, you only
select ingredients that are necessary for the recipe, that are of high-quality and that suit stock rotation
requirements.
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➢ Fresh fish.
Do:
➢ Consider using whole peppercorns and bay leaves, as these are relatively easy to
separate from the rest of the mixture
➢ Use vegetables that are a day or several days old – as long as they are in good condition
Don't:
➢ Use cabbage family vegetables in stocks, e.g. turnips, rutabagas, Brussel sprouts,
broccoli, cauliflower, etc.
Whatever ingredients you choose, try to strike a balance between quality and taste. After all, selecting
the most expensive ingredients in your stores for simple stocks and sauces would be inefficient when –
with a little creativity – you can achieve the same quality for less money.
Date labelling on ingredients must provide a 'best-before' or 'use-by' date. If a best-before date, you
may use this after the date shown, but the quality will begin to diminish; therefore, supplies should be
used before the date expires. A use-by date must never be ignored; products with this type of date may
be harmful if consumed after the date has passed. When ingredients must be used within three months,
the date will be shown as the day and month; for products over a three-month shelf-life, this is given as
a month and year.
Your organisation may use stock rotation labels; this system helps busy kitchens easily identify the
freshest ingredients that are soon to expire. Labelling is placed on containers and ingredients with a
specific date or indicator for when products must be used by.
➢ Day-of-the-week labels
➢ Shelf-life labels
Stock labels may include information such as ingredient batch codes, best-before dates, use-by dates,
freeze-by dates and storage instructions (such as store below 5 degrees Celsius). These help to maintain
ingredients in storage and show others that you are actively monitoring stock storage and usage.
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Photo sources:
Radish And Carrots Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Sliced Eggplants on Wooden Chopping Board Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Slices of Cabbage on a Wooden Chopping Board Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Woman choosing frozen product in supermarket Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 1C
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➢ Explain when to check perishable supplies for spoilage and contamination and
summarise the method to perform the checks
➢ List the steps they can take to prevent spoilage and contamination of perishable
supplies.
When supplies spoil or suffer from contamination, so too will your profit margins. You will lose valuable
stocks and supplies and have to expend time and resources disposing of them and ordering
replacements. It may also sabotage your other plans for certain meals and recipes from your menu.
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Having discovered that certain supplies have spoiled, you may have to re-think your menu and make
last-minute orders or corrections, which ultimately could lead to customer satisfaction.
Therefore, it is vital to regularly check all perishable supplies for spoilage and contamination before
preparing food.
Given the difficulty of assessing supplies purely through visual means, it is important to review the
transport temperature records so that you know whether the food was kept at the right temperature
during delivery. Many delivery companies now use temperature recording devices in their lorries and
vans to help kitchen staff assess whether supplies were stored in the correct conditions
Maintaining the quality of supplies in storage is simply a case of devising an effective system for
managing storage conditions. This means installing specific technologies (such as thermostats),
establishing procedures for checking and reviewing conditions and ensuring that all staff members stick
to these procedures.
You should also consider using temperature-monitoring systems, which record storage temperatures
and allow you to review the fluctuations in temperature over a given period.
Photo sources:
Person Holding a Sliced Avocado Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Hands of a Person Slicing Green Vegetable on Stainless Steel Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Vegetable Soup with Meat in Stainless Steel Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 1D
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o commercial:
▪ food processor
▪ planetary mixer
▪ freezer
o double sink
o microwave
o storage facilities:
▪ shelving
▪ trays
➢ Small equipment:
o cutting boards
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o graters
o knives:
▪ carving knives
▪ utility knives
o measurers:
▪ measuring spoons
o mouli
o oven mitts
▪ fry pans
o scales
o service-ware:
o small utensils:
▪ scrapers
▪ spatulas
▪ whisks:
o spoons:
▪ serving spoons
▪ wooden spoons
o thermometers.
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The type and size of equipment you use will depend on various factors, including the size of the kitchen
area, the tasks you need to complete, the time you have to complete, and your level and experience in
operating specific items of equipment.
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Stocks Stock pot Wide with flat bottom helps the proper circulation
of air – convection
Stove top
A wide top helps with skimming the surface – taller
Strainer
and narrower pots limit evaporation
Straining materials
Lid to retain heat
Scales
Aluminium to prevent erosions due to salt and acid
Oven content
Roasting pans Stove top – allows temperature control
Ladles Strainer/ straining material allows the passing of
Skimmers the stock to prevent particles from being present in
the finished product
Cooling ice paddles
Scales are necessary y for measuring the correct
ingredient quantities
Ovens and roasting pans will be frequently utilised
in the roasting of meats and bones and vegetables
to form the basis of some stocks
Ladles are necessary for transferring liquids in
larger amounts
Skimmers are essential for skimming froth and
other debris from the top of stocks to help the
clarification process
Ice paddles help to cool the stocks quickly and
evenly, from inside to outside the liquid, to allow
for prompt and safe storage
Sauces Curved saucepans Correct saucepans help the cook to cover the
bottom of the pan when stirring, helping prevent
Chinois
catching and scorching and helping to stir the sauce
Immersion blender effectively properly and fully
Flat whisks Conical strainers help to create a smooth sauce
Wooden spoons when passed through – it has double mesh
Immersion blenders can be placed directly into the
sauce for blending, pureeing, and smoothing
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Soups Soup kettles Soup kettles can be used to warm and re-
thermalise soups and heat to a safe temperature in
Stock pot
under 90 minutes and can be controlled
Stove top thermostatically of infinitely.
Strainer Soup pots need to be wide with a flat bottom – this
Immersion blender helps the proper circulation of air – convection. The
wide top helps skim the surface – taller and
Ladle narrower pots limit evaporation and a tight fitting
lid helps retain heat.
Aluminium to prevent erosions due to salt and acid
content.
Stove top – allows temperature control.
Strainer/ straining material allows the passing of
the stock to prevent particles from being present in
the finished product.
Immersion blenders can be placed directly into the
sauce for blending, pureeing, and smoothing
Ladles are necessary for transferring liquids in
larger amounts.
Photo sources:
Stainless Steel Cooking Pot on Stove Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Photo Of Person Holding Bottle Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Chef Making Dessert Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Person Holding Yellow Plastic Bottle Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Man Cooking Food Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Bread Pieces with Broth in Steel Pots Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 2A
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➢ Provide one example of equipment that requires extra precautions with when
assembling and provide a reason why this equipment requires extra caution
➢ Explain the importance of ensuring all equipment is clean prior to its use, and how to
would ensure cleanliness.
➢ If equipment is faulty, ensure it is clearly labelled as such and inform all relevant
members of staff
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➢ Turn off any equipment when not in use and avoid using extension cables to plug in
cooking appliances
➢ Never use any equipment until you have been trained in its safe use.
Equipment cleanliness
Using clean equipment ensures that the food you prepare, and produce will be safe to eat. Cleaning
equipment also protects the longevity of the appliance in question.
You should always check the cleanliness of equipment before use, as it is impossible to know for sure
whether the last user cleaned it thoroughly after they finished their task.
Clean-in-place equipment should either have a self-drain system or have the ability to be drained
effectively so that cleaning and sanitising solutions can be removed from the equipment and not
contaminate any food. Any in-place equipment must be constructed so that all parts and components
can be cleaned and sanitised thoroughly.
The Food standards code 3.2.3 also provides an overview of factors that make the equipment much
easier to clean.
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These include:
➢ Smooth surfaces which have curved edges and no open seams
➢ Dismantling procedures for cleaning that require no specialist tools or excessive force
➢ Adequate space between the wall and mounting shelves to prevent food from
becoming trapped
➢ Wheels or castors are fixed to equipment so it can be moved easily to enable effective
cleaning and sanitation around all sides, as well as the surfaces behind and underneath
➢ Wires, pipes and hosing that can be disconnected (or disconnected long enough so that
equipment can be moved) to enable cleaning and sanitisation.
Just like when assembling equipment, you should always clean equipment according to manufacturer
instructions and your workplace's health and safety policies and procedures.
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Photo sources:
Woman in White Apron Holding White Ceramic Plate Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Man in Blue Dress Shirt Holding a Yellow Textile Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Photo of Vegetables Beside Gray Electric Kettle Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 2B
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➢ List three information sources to consult if there is no instruction manual available with
a certain piece of equipment.
To understand these points of information, you will have to read and understand the manufacturer's
instruction manual. Every item of equipment – unless it has been bought second-hand – should come
with a list of instructions for safe, hygienic and effective use.
If there is no instruction manual available, or if the instruction manual is unclear, you should consult:
➢ The manufacturers' troubleshooting hotline
➢ Technicians
Whatever the circumstances, do not proceed to use any items of equipment unless you know how to do
so safely and hygienically. This is the quickest way to cause an accident, and you will be risking your
health and well-being and that of your colleagues and customers.
Photo sources:
Person Cooking on Stainless Steel Cooking Pot Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
A Woman in an Apron Holding a Journal in a Kitchen Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 2C
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3.3. Clean and cut ingredients as required using basic culinary cuts according to culinary standards.
It is also important to work efficiently and without distraction; having to keep leaving your station to
fetch things from stores can result in you forgetting which stages of the recipe have already been
completed.
Mise en place
'Mise en place' is a French term meaning 'everything in its place'. It refers to the process, prior to
cooking, of arranging ingredients and items of equipment required for menu dishes to be prepared.
Chefs have used this technique for centuries as a way to attain a strong measure of control over the
cooking process and ultimately produce perfect dishes.
Fundamentally, the mise en place technique requires a chef to gather every item needed to complete a
recipe and prepare it all accordingly. This means that a cook will need to read a recipe thoroughly, not
P a g e | 57
only to ensure they have the right ingredients but that they also have the right amount and it is all
prepared correctly.
Failure to read a recipe properly is one of the main reasons for dishes going awry. Still, if you use mise
en place, all the ingredients are already weighed and prepared (cut, sliced, crushed etc.), so you can
focus entirely on cooking the dish and paying close attention to timings.
It is vital to note that the mise en place assembly technique does not just refer to ingredients but also
equipment. You will have little luck making risotto without a pan. Similarly, a cake will not rise well if
you have failed to preheat the oven.
Sequencing
The order in which you assemble and prepare ingredients will depend on how soon each dish needs to
be ready. This process is called 'sequencing'.
It is important to sequence the production of a meal so that it turns out as fresh as possible and with
great visual appeal. For example, cutting slices of apple for a cheese platter to be served after the main
course before diners have been served their starters would not be effective food production
sequencing. The apples would begin to brown before being served, making the dish look unappealing.
Generally speaking, preparing and gathering all ingredients for the first course, then the main course
and so on is good practice. The exception will be when food requires long cooking or setting time (e.g. a
dessert containing jelly).
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➢ All utensils, bowls, chopping, processing, and cooking equipment should be set out.
➢ Meat products that require cooking prior to their use should be cooked in advance and
stored appropriately
➢ Ingredients that have been precooked or pre-prepared should be safely brought to the
correct temperature and set out in order of use before cooking the soups, stocks, or
sauces.
➢ All ingredients that can be weighed or measured should be. They should then be placed
ready for use in the correct order before cooking.
Photo sources:
Person Holding Sliced Vegetable Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Man in Apron Preparing Ingredients for Cooking Pizza Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
A Man Slicing Meat Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 3A
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➢ Measuring jugs
➢ Measuring spoons.
Scales
Scales are used for measuring predominantly non-liquid ingredients such as flour, butter, rice etc.,
where the quantity stipulated by the recipe is given as a unit of weight.
➢ Kilogrammes (kg)
➢ Pounds (lbs)
➢ Ounces (oz).
There are different types of weighing scales. You may wish to use a digital scale that takes precise
measurements, leaving less room for human error. Alternatively, you may wish to use mechanical
scales. Another factor you might consider is which scales you find easiest to read clearly and accurately,
which equipment is within your budget, how many portions you need to cook and the quantity the
scales can hold. For example, you may be using it for industrial purposes, catering on a large scale.
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Smaller scales will not necessarily prevent you from cooking on a large scale, as you can measure the
ingredients in several stages.
Always read the manufacturer instructions that come with weighing scales. You might not need help
when using or reading a simple scale. However, some digital scales can be more advanced (showing
calorie or nutritional values, etc.) so you may need to read the manual before you can accurately read
and attribute the different figures shown on the scale.
o the scales should read zero with the empty bowl already on
➢ Place the ingredient to be measured in the weighing bowl and continue to do so until
the scales display the desired amount
o make sure you are reading the scales in the correct unit
➢ Remove the ingredient from the scale, either still in the bowl or transfer to another
container
➢ Wash and dry the weighing bowl or place a clean bowl on the scales
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➢ Weigh the next ingredient and repeat until all ingredients have been weighed.
Remember to read the ingredients carefully because they may specify certain requirements that can
affect weight. For example, whether the ingredient should be weighed, cooked or uncooked.
Measuring jugs
Measuring jugs are used to measure out liquid ingredients such as cream, milk, wine etc., and provide
readings in volume or capacity units instead of weight.
➢ Centilitres (cl)
➢ Litres (l)
To use a measuring jug, ensure it is clean and placed on a flat, level surface; otherwise, the reading will
be inaccurate. Pour the ingredient into the jug until you have measured the desired amount. You will
need to read the scale that runs up the side of the jug to determine this.
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Measuring spoons
Many recipes call for small quantities of ingredients, such as a teaspoon of salt or a tablespoon of soy
sauce. These quantities cannot be measured using the equipment already discussed; values such as this
need to be measured using the specified cutlery or standardised measuring spoons. Measuring spoons
are available in both metric and imperial units of measure and can be used for dry and liquid
ingredients.
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Conversion
There may be occasions when a recipe calls for a given amount of ingredients in a measure that the
equipment in your workplace does not cater for. To remedy this, the values will need to be converted
(e.g. from pounds to grammes).
Portions
As mentioned, the number of dishes a recipe states it serves is often going to be different to the
number of people that you need to prepare the dish for. This may be especially true in catering and
hospitality, where the number of people to be served is not always known.
Where the ingredient amounts need to be adjusted to cater for larger or smaller quantities of people,
use the calculation method outlined in section 1.2 to establish how much of each ingredient will be
required.
Photo sources:
Chef Preparing Food at a Kitchen Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Close-up View of Butter on Plate Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Person Pouring an Ingredient from a Plastic Container to a Weighing Scale Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Electronic scales with heap of sugar Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Silver Spoon and Fork on White Textile Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Top View of Dishes in Decorative Bowls Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
P a g e | 67
Activity 3B
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3.3 – Clean and cut ingredients as required using basic culinary cuts according to
culinary standards
By the end of this chapter, the learner should be able to:
➢ Explain briefly why it is important to ensure that ingredients are clean before starting
to cook, along with a summary of how to ensure cleanliness
➢ List the basic culinary cuts according to culinary standards and provide a brief
explanation of each.
Cutting and chopping ingredients into smaller chunks is not just necessary to aid the cooking process;
the size in which you cut the food will significantly impact the overall cooking time and success of the
dish.
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➢ If using a cutting board, place a damp cloth beneath it to stop the board from slipping
➢ Use your fingertips to steer the knife along the ingredient you are cutting.
Once you have squared off your ingredients, you are ready to proceed.
➢ The Chiffonade
➢ Mince.
It is a relatively easy cut that simply requires you to go one step further than the Julienne method.
Simply the Julienne cuts, bunch them together and cut them into 2mm x 2mm x 2mm portions.
Known as 'Parmentier' in French, The Medium Dice involves cutting ingredients into cubes measuring
about 6mm x 6mm x 6mm.
The Chiffonade
The Chiffonade is used mainly for cutting leafy vegetables (such as spinach) and fresh herbs. It involves
bunching ingredients together, rolling them into a cigar-shaped cylinder and then slicing quite finely to
create a garnish or small cut suitable for stirring into stocks, sauces and soups.
Mince
Mincing is essentially the same as a small dice but with less precision. You will often mince garlic and
other vegetables from the onion family to add lots of flavour.
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Photo sources:
Close-Up Shot of a Person Slicing Cooked Meat Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Dice Vegetables Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
A Person Cutting an Onion Thinly Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Man in Black Chef Uniform Standing by the Chopping Board Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 3C
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➢ List three methods for maximising profitability of food items prepared via menu
decisions.
It is estimated that half of all food is wasted between 'field and fork' around the world (National Food
Waste Assessment, June 2011), but much of this waste can be avoided. Through better control of food
portions, more creative preparation techniques and smarter storage methods, it is possible to
significantly reduce the amount of waste you produce in the kitchen. It also helps to pay closer
attention to customer reservations so that you can make more informed decisions about the amount of
food that needs to be ordered and prepared.
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However, you can take several steps to ensure you are using as much of the food stock as possible and
thereby maximising profit.
➢ When bringing food out of storage, only take what will actually be needed for that
service/day
➢ Order produce according to its longevity and date of intended use to minimise the risk
of spoilage before using
➢ Consider making portions smaller or offering the same dish in different sizes, including
children's portions
➢ If a dish is not selling as well as anticipated, create a specials dish that uses some of the
same ingredients so that they are not wasted
Photo sources:
Crop woman cleaning cutting board in kitchen Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Vegetable salad served on table with beef steak in restaurant Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Fruit Shake Pouring on Fruit Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 26.09.22
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Activity 3D
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4.4. Use thickening agents and convenience products according to standard recipes.
4.5. Make derivations from basic sauces, both hot and cold where required.
4.1 – Follow standard recipes, select and use cookery methods to prepare
stocks, sauces and soups
By the end of this chapter, the learner should be able to:
➢ Identify how to follow standard recipes, and select and use cookery methods to
prepare stocks, sauces and soups.
That said, as a junior-level chef, it pays to learn and follow standard recipes and to select and use
recognised cookery methods. Doing so will help build your confidence in the kitchen and provide a
platform for future experimentation.
Stocks
A stock is, essentially, flavoured water, though it differs from culture to culture. Australian stock, for
instance, will be made using certain cookery methods, as will Japanese stock, Mexican stock, French
stock etc.
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Stocks include:
➢ White stock
➢ Brown stock
o the best bones to use are typically the knuckle/shank from veal, as they contain
higher collagen content, which includes gelatine
o to create a brown stock, you must first roast the bones; this creates a rich brown
colour
➢ Fish stock
o fish stock is clear with a strong fish flavour and light body
➢ Vegetable stock
o vegetable stocks are used to add flavour to vegan, vegetarian and meat dishes
alike
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The following table shows the characteristics of some of the stocks you will be required to make and the
factors that indicate freshness.
Brown beef stock Brown and clear No visible fat. Strong meaty Flavourful and rich
Fat should have aroma
been skimmed,
and stock should
be free of oil
Brown chicken Brown and clear No visible fat. Strong Rich and deeply
stock Fat should have chicken flavourful
been skimmed aroma
white chicken White/pale and Clear, free of fat Mild chicken Clean flavour of
stock clear – can have a aroma chicken and
slightly sticky vegetables
appearance if feet
are utilised
Fish stock White/pale and Clear, free of fat Fresh and Fresh, slightly
clear fragrant – salty, and aromatic
mild scent of flavours of the
fish vegetables used
present
Vegetable stock Pale yellowish Clear, free of fat Fresh and Very mild
green to orange vegetable-like vegetable taste
and clear – no strong or
foul odour
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Sauces
Sauces tend to be derived from stocks, thicker than stocks, and rich in flavour. Although there are many
sauces, most are varieties of five sauces known as 'the Mother Sauces'.
➢ Velouté
➢ Espagnole
➢ Tomato
➢ Hollandaise.
To remember these five sauces, it helps to think of them as colours: white, blonde, brown, red and
yellow. You should ensure that you learn the recipes for these key sauces, both classical and
contemporary variations, where applicable, as you will likely need to recreate the recipes countless
times throughout your career.
The following table shows the characteristics of some of the sauces you will be required to make.
Béchamel sauce: Basic sauce made Thick, rich glossy Used within Lasagne
of white roux white sauce, dishes as part of
Mornay Moussaka
(four and butter) creamy and the dish to add
and milk, salt and smooth components and Macaroni cheese
sometimes flavour or to coat Fish pie
Plain and basis
nutmeg. ingredients
for other sauces Cauliflower
within a dish
Mornay - as – can be cheese
above, with the seasoned
addition of according to Bouchée à la
cheese. requirements Reine
Within a
chowder
Stock reduction Demi-glace: Thick, glossy, Can aid in lower Proteins e.g.
sauce: flavourful fat options as the
Rich brown sauce Chicken
liquid is reduced
Demi-glace Shiny down to a sauce Meat
Variations of consistency
Jus Part brown Fish
colour depending
sauce, part stock.
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Bearnaise sauce Wine vinegar Rich and velvety, Side sauce to top Steak
reduction with herby, and protein elements
Seafood
flavoured with delicately of a dish and for
tarragon, flavoured. pouring Poultry
shallots, Creamy and
thickened with slightly acidic.
egg yolks and
butter
Sauce tomate Sauce made with Tangy, rich, Often forming Lasagne
tomatoes as the smooth, thick the basis or key
Meatballs
basis often elements of
flavoured with other dishes Stew sauce for
garlic and onions meat
and reduced to a Vegetables
thick consistency
Beurre Blanc Wine and butter Velvety and rich, Topping protein Fish
form the basis of sweet and tangy elements and
Seafood
this sauce pouring
Can also be used
to pour over
vegetables
Soups
Thicker, more wholesome, and more nutritious than stocks and sauces, soups are meals in themselves.
They can be
o Consommé
o Pot-au-feu
o Minestrone
o Scotch Broth
➢ Thick soups
o Pumpkin
o Cream of mushroom
o Cream of tomato
o Cream of cauliflower
o Velouté Andalouse
o Lobster bisque
o Yabby bisque
o Prawn bisque
o Kidney
➢ Miscellaneous soups
o Mulligatawny
o Vichyssoise
o Gazpacho
o Cherry
o Congee
o Avgolemono
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o Miso
o Laksa
o French onion
o Cock-a-Leekie
o Fish Chowder
o Sweetcorn Chowder.
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The following table shows the characteristics of some of the soups you will be required to make.
Consommé Clear soup made with Clear, shiny, thin, free As an appetiser
stock or bouillon with from particles,
egg, egg whites and intensely flavoured –
ground meats. strong and rich. With a garnish of
vegetables
Onion, carrots and
celery create
aromatics.
Purée Made from legumes Thick and soft, but Served as a complete
or starchy vegetables with texture. dish
as a base, pureed.
Sometimes topped
They thicken due to with garnishes related
Taste dependent upon
the starch release to the type and
the addition of various
during cooking and flavour of the soup.
ingredients.
pureeing.
Contemporary
versions include rice
to thicken.
Bisque in modern
times also refers to
the texture rather
than the type, so
mushroom, squash
and other vegetables
appear on menus
listed as bisques.
It is usual to prepare and store stocks, soups and sauces in advance of their use.
If you are using pre-prepared products, you may need to assess them for quality and freshness.
Key indicators for sensory evaluation can be utilised and are listed below.
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➢ Lustre – the shine and gloss or lack thereof can indicate freshness and quality
➢ Aroma – the sauce should smell as it was intended – indications that a sauce may not
be fresh are notes of acidity, overbearingly fishy, cheesy, or musty aromas not in
keeping with the characteristics of the sauce
➢ Taste – the sauce should taste as it was intended to taste – not off in any way or
contaminated in flavouring due to utensils, or storage
➢ Texture and viscosity - the texture and thickness of the sauce should be in keeping with
standards for the particular sauce. Sauces that are too thick, claggy, thin, watery, or
separated are indicators that the sauce is not fresh or the quality standard has not
been met.
Photo sources:
Homemade Soup Stock in Pot Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Photo of Food Being Cooked in a Pot Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Close-Up Photo Of Food Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4A
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Ask the more experienced chefs in your kitchen for advice on which flavouring agents to use for which
meals and try experimenting yourself.
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➢ Fresh herbs
➢ Fruit
➢ Spices
➢ Nuts
➢ Wine
➢ Vegetables
➢ Aromatics
➢ Cheese rinds
➢ Yoghurt.
Photo sources:
Composition of Spoonful’s with Various Spices Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Various Spices and Herbs in Close Up Photography Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4B
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Clarifying agents
While flavouring agents are used to adjust the taste and aroma of a dish, clarifying agents are used to
adjust texture; to remove solids from liquids.
➢ Aluminium chlorohydrate
➢ Aluminium sulphate
➢ Aluminium sulphate
➢ Calcium oxide
➢ Calcium hydroxide
➢ Iron sulphate
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➢ Iron chloride
➢ Polyacrylamide
➢ PolyDADMAC
➢ Sodium aluminate
➢ Sodium silicate.
➢ Isinglass
➢ Gelatin
➢ Guar gum
Given the variety of chemicals they contain, you should refrain from using clarifying agents until you
fully understand what's in them, how they work and how they should be used. Clarifying agents can
pose risks to you, your colleagues, and the customer.
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There are other ways to clarify soups, stocks and sauces that do not involve chemicals. These include:
➢ Straining and double straining using layers of muslin cloth and/or strainer
➢ Utilise egg whites to create a mixture to form a raft – the egg white will coagulate and
bring up impurities to the surface, clearing the liquid you wish to clarify
➢ Freezing the liquid and then defrost through a sieve – the gelatine retains the
impurities and remains solid whilst the water thaws and passes through the sieve.
The use of egg whites to clarify liquid is another classical and well-known remedy to cloudy stocks,
soups and sauces.
➢ Add one whipped egg white per litre as well as the crushed shell to the pot, stirring it
quickly into the stock
➢ As the temperature climbs past 60C, the egg whites start to coagulate
➢ During this process, the proteins and impurities rise to the surface and bind together to
form a raft
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➢ Once the egg whites have all coagulated, ladle through a hole in the raft, and pass it
through muslin cloth to strain any remaining impurities.
Photo sources:
Bowl of Soup Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Chicken Soup Dish Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Cooked Noodle With Garnish Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4C
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Most thickening agents have starch as their base ingredient. When starch cooks, it becomes gelatinous,
creating a thicker overall texture. Importantly, gelatinised starch has a neutral flavour, so as long as
thickening agents are used in moderation, the taste of the stock, sauce or soup to which it is added will
remain the same.
➢ Pre-gelatinised starches
➢ Arrowroot
➢ Agar
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➢ Algin
➢ Gelatine
➢ Pectin.
To create a gelling effect in products such as sweet sauces for example, use gelatin, pectin or agar are
those with the ability to create the desired effect and are commonly used. They are hydrocolloids, able
to cross link polymer chains present in food, and as such are commonly used for this purpose.
The key word when using thickening agents is 'moderation'. If you use too little, the thickening agent is
unlikely to increase the viscosity of a stock, sauce or soup to any noticeable degree, but if you use too
much, you risk diluting the dish's flavour.
It is also important to ensure that thickening agents are cooked thoroughly, as uncooked starch can
produce a very bland 'starchy' flavour, which customers will notice. One simple way to ensure
thickening agents are cooked thoroughly is to taste the food continually as you work.
Convenience products
When preparing stocks, soups and stews, there may be times when the standard recipe calls for the use
of certain convenience products. This may be to cut down on cooking and preparation times and help
keep the production level to a good operational standard during busy service periods.
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Some of the convenience products you are likely to utilise are listed below:
➢ Herbs and spices – frozen, dried, paste forms
➢ Stock powder
➢ Stock cubes
➢ Stock pastes
➢ Ready-made stock
➢ Condensed soup
➢ Pre-chopped, packed raw vegetables for soups and stocks may also be utilised.
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Photo sources:
Soup In White Ceramic Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Cooked Food on the Plate Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Close-Up Shot of Soup in a Bowl beside a Bread Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4D
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4.5 – Make derivations from basic sauces, both hot and cold where required
By the end of this chapter, the learner should be able to:
➢ Identify how to make derivations from basic sauces, both hot and cold where required.
➢ Velouté
➢ Espagnole
➢ Tomato
➢ Hollandaise.
Béchamel
A basic béchamel sauce can be made using the following recipe:
➢ Base: milk
➢ Flavourings: white onion, clove, bay leaf, salt, white pepper, nutmeg
➢ Secondary sauces: cream sauce, mornay, cheddar cheese sauce, mustard sauce,
Nantua
➢ Often served with: eggs, fish, steamed poultry, steamed vegetables, pasta, and veal.
Velouté
A basic velouté sauce can be made using the following recipe:
➢ Base: white stock (usually veal, but chicken and fish stock can also be used)
➢ Secondary sauces: sauce vin Blanc (white wine sauce), sauce supreme, sauce
Allemande, sauce poulette, sauce Bercy, sauce Normandy
➢ Often served with: eggs, fish, steamed poultry, steamed vegetables, pasta, and veal.
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Espagnole
A basic Espagnole sauce can be made using the following recipe:
➢ Base: roasted veal stock (roasted chicken stock is occasionally used)
➢ Flavourings: mirepoix, sachet (bay leaf, fresh thyme, parsley), tomato purée
➢ Often served with: roasted meats, especially beef, duck, veal, and lamb.
Tomato
A basic tomato sauce can be made using the following recipe:
➢ Base: tomatoes (raw, tomato paste, tomato purée, stewed tomatoes)
➢ Thickening agent: usually a roux, though modern varieties commonly use a reduction
or purées
➢ Classical flavourings: salt pork, mirepoix, garlic, white veal stock, salt & pepper, sugar
➢ Often served with: pasta, fish, vegetables, polenta, veal, poultry (especially chicken),
bread and dumplings such as gnocchi.
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Hollandaise
A basic hollandaise sauce can be made using the following recipe:
➢ Base: egg yolks and butter
➢ Flavourings: peppercorns (black), white wine vinegar, salt, lemon juice, cayenne pepper
➢ Often served with: eggs (eggs Benedict), vegetables (especially asparagus), light poultry
dishes, fish, and beef (béarnaise sauce).
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Base stocks:
➢ Form key elements of many sauces, soups, and stews.
Photo sources:
Plate with meat pieces on sticks near poached egg Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Palatable meat with sauce on white plate served on table Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Delicious beefsteak garnished with puree in restaurant Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Seafoods on a White Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4E
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➢ Explain why it is important to know how to assess and adjust food quality
➢ Provide an example of assessments points that may require adjustment related to food
quality.
This is because every dish you produce must be of an equally high standard. To send out a few high-
quality dishes and then a few dishes that aren't so good would be lazy and unfair. Plus, you can be
certain that the customers with the lower quality dishes will notice.
➢ Temperature
➢ Texture.
It is the entirety of the kitchen staff and waiting staff's responsibility to ensure that when a diner
receives a dish, it is of the highest quality both in terms of ingredients and presentation. If each member
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performs their duties correctly and in line with quality and presentation procedure, as well as the food
standards code, then this should always be the case. However, in a busy kitchen, steps can sometimes
be missed, which results in a sub-par plate of food. This doesn't necessarily mean that the food will be
wasted, as actions can be taken to remedy the food's quality.
Taste
If a dish does not taste as it should, it could be for various reasons.
If spoiled produce has been used, the food will have to be thrown away as it is not fit for human
consumption. If the wrong ingredients have been used, this is also difficult to rectify as the flavour
profiles of those ingredients may be immersed within the dish. However, using the wrong amount of
ingredients may not make a dish unsalvageable. If discovered during the preparation and cooking
stages, the other ingredients can be adjusted accordingly to match the ratios within the recipe. Over
seasoning can be tricky to rectify, especially if too much salt has been used, as it will require a flavour to
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counteract the effect on the taste buds. Under-seasoning is perhaps the easiest issue to solve – just add
more seasoning.
Temperature
Food that is too cold may be able to be re-heated so long as it is noticed straight away, has not been
partially eaten, and re-heating will not affect the quality of the food. However, dishes that are too warm
may not be as easy to correct, as too much heat when it is not wanted tends to affect food more
drastically.
Texture
If the texture of a dish is not at its best, it could be because a component or accompaniment is missing
that adds variation. If you think this is the case, consult the sous chef or chef de cuisine.
Scope of responsibility
The scope of responsibility is the range of duties you are expected to carry out within your job role. In a
catering and hospitality environment, there is a chain of command and where you lie within this chain
will determine your accountability for the presentation and quality of food.
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➢ Chef de cuisine
➢ Sous Chef
➢ Commis chef
➢ Apprentice chef
Photo sources:
Crop cook adding spices into pan in kitchen Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Serious ethnic man adding seasonings during dinner preparation in kitchen Free Stock Photo
(pexels,com)
Crop women cooking sauce together Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 4F
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5.2. Present soups and sauces attractively on appropriate service-ware, using garnishes according to
standard recipes.
5.5. Clean work area and dispose of or store surplus and reusable by-products according to
organisational procedures, environmental considerations, and cost reduction initiatives.
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➢ List the steps required to re-thermalise a stock, sauce or soup on the stove.
Being able to reconstitute or re-thermalise stocks, sauces and soups is essential for all chefs. It is
inevitable that, on occasion, you will make mistakes. Whether it's by adding the wrong ingredient,
forgetting to add an ingredient, getting your ingredient amounts wrong, or simply leaving the dish for
too long on the stove, there is any number of potential mistakes you can make when it comes to finding
the right consistency for your stocks, sauces, and soups.
Thankfully, however, there are certain measures you can take to make it for such issues.
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To reconstitute a stock, sauce or soup, you will usually add (depending on the recipe):
➢ Water
➢ Milk
➢ Cream.
Remember:
➢ If you are reconstituting several different types of food all at the same time, make sure
the ingredient amounts are uniform so they will reconstitute at the same speed
➢ Soft water works better with fruits and vegetables than does hard water
➢ Pay close attention to the amount of time you re-heat each batch – this will vary
according to quantity
➢ Turn the heat to 'medium' if the stock, sauce or soup is not frozen
➢ Stir regularly
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➢ When the liquid reaches boiling point, allow it to rest at that heat for one minute
➢ After it is thoroughly re-heated, turn the heat down to medium-low and allow the
liquid to simmer for a little while before finally turning off the heat
➢ Repeat the process of heating and stirring until you are happy the liquid is thoroughly
heated
Remember to check with more experienced staff whether the stock, sauce or soup is suitable for re-
heating. As a rule of thumb, if the dish is older than three days, avoid reheating it.
Photo sources:
Variety of Soup Dishes in Cooking Pots Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
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Cooked Food in White and Brown Ceramic Bowl Close-up Photography Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Using Stove while Preparing Seafood Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
Activity 5A
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➢ List ideas for presenting soups and sauces attractively using appropriate service ware
and garnishes.
You might assume that your options are limited when presenting soups and sauces. But this couldn't be
further from the case. Although you will most often serve soups and sauces in bowls and dishes, there
are many ways to be creative and stimulate your customers' eyes and taste buds.
o you could also use different vessels such as large mugs, cups, sugar pots and
mason jars
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o you may even use mesh tins; these are proving very popular in casual bars and
restaurants across Australia
o for example, 'teardrop’-shaped plates with bowls in the middle of the 'drop'
➢ Add garnish
o for example, fresh herbs, cheese rind and croutons can all add colour to your
dishes
Remember, only use service ware that is appropriate to the dish. If a bowl or dish is too big, or if it is
patterned, it will detract from the visual appeal of the food itself. Service staff may also find it difficult
to carry out more than one at a time to customers, which ultimately would slow down the service and
lead to some customers receiving slightly colder meals.
Be sure to heat up your plates and bowls before ladling in the soup or sauce; this will help the dish
retain its heat for longer.
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Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a hugely effective way to boost the flavour and the visual appeal of your food.
Garnishes help to transform the colour, taste and texture of stocks, sauces and soups and therefore
offer an outlet for your creativity when cooking.
➢ Vegetables
➢ Crushed nuts
➢ Citrus zests
➢ Spices
When adding garnishes, remember that less is more. You do not want to clutter the plate or dish with
herbs, sauces, vegetables, etc., as this will overwhelm the main ingredients' visual appeal, taste, texture
and aroma.
Photo sources:
Close Up Photo of Risotto Dish Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Pouring Sauce on Plated Food Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Plate of Sushi Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Croutons and Herb Garnish on Mushroom Soup Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 5B
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➢ List the five elements related to the basic plating of food which should be considered
when presenting dishes, along with a brief example.
o for balance
o for colour
o for contrast
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o customer consumption
o service.
Plating food
There are five elements to the basic plating of food.
These are:
➢ Planning
➢ Simplicity
o ensure there is one main focus of the plate that resonates with diners and refrain
from cluttering the plate
➢ Balance
o create a balance of colour, texture and shape but ensure the functionality of
eating and the flavour of the food are the most important aspects
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➢ Portions
o ensure the amount of food being served is appropriate to the nature of the event
and the size of the plate
➢ Highlight
o make sure the main ingredient is the star of the plate but don't underestimate
the importance of the support, i.e. the garnishes and accompaniments.
Evaluating presentation
When evaluating the dish's presentation, refer back to the five elements to see if it meets the
specifications of each.
If your answer to any of the above questions is 'no', then the dish needs to be adjusted accordingly. Do
not be prepared to have a dish sent out that you are not happy with – after all, the customer will judge
the kitchen staff and the company based on their enjoyment of the food.
Adjusting presentation
The best approach to adjusting presentation is to place components on various plates and in different
compositions to perfect the dish before it goes 'live' – that is, before it becomes available for customers
to order.
In reality, when a kitchen is busy, and there are time restraints, dishes won't be plated as perfectly as
they were intended during the planning stage. However, inspecting and assessing each plate before it
leaves the kitchen is important.
If the dish is missing a component, it is a simple fix; add it to the plate. If the plating is not up to par or
the portion size is wrong, it will need to be re-plated on clean crockery.
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Photo sources:
Button Mushrooms in a Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
A Delicious Dessert in a Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Brown Soup in a Bowl Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
A Bowl of Delicious Noodles Topped with Strips of Onions and Carrots Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Accessed 27.09.22
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Activity 5C
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➢ Humidity
➢ Light
➢ Packaging
➢ Temperature
➢ Ventilation.
Temperature control
Temperature control is an important aspect of food safety, as microorganisms and harmful bacteria are
more likely to grow on some foods at certain temperatures. The risk of this can be minimised by keeping
food stored at temperatures that kill bacteria and microorganisms or that prevents them from
multiplying.
Foods which require temperature control must only be left at room temperature for very short amounts
of time.
Monitoring temperature
You must be able to monitor the temperature of food storage environments and foodstuffs in order to
ensure that suitable temperatures are maintained.
The temperature of food must be monitored using a thermometer that is accurate to +/-1˚C. The
thermometer may need to be inserted into food products to ensure that they are at a correct
temperature internally, and not just on the surface. Thermometers must be sanitised between uses.
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You will likely have to store stock, sauce or soup in the fridge (or freezer) or under a hot light. In any
case, be sure to store items in an orderly way and label your dishes or inform your colleagues where you
have placed them.
If storing dishes under a hot light, prior to serving, it is also important to ensure you do not leave them
there for too long. Otherwise, they may become too hot, ruining their flavour and texture.
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The table below details storage methods for stocks, sauces and soups to ensure safety and optimise
shelf life.
Stocks, sauces and Utilise proper cooling Safety is ensured if the Helps to prevent food
soups methods, e.g. portion correct cooling spoilage.
to cool, use rapid methods are utilised.
cooling methods Low-temperature
A temperature probe storage prevents the
Transfer into clean should be sued to growth of bacteria
and sanitised check that safe delaying spoilage
containers or temperatures have when hygienically
restaurant-grade bags been reached before prepared for storage.
storage – below 8
Freeze at appropriate degrees C within 90 Food safety practices
temperatures. minutes and frozen and safe
below -18 degrees C. environmental
conditions that are
Rapid cooling allows closely monitored can
the food to be frozen help in prolonging the
and stored promptly, shelf life of foods.
decreasing the
chances of bacteria
growing on food, and
whilst freezing doesn't
necessarily kill
bacteria, it prevents
growth.
Photo sources:
Leek and potato soup with yogurt Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Person Holding Clear Glass Jar and Wooden Spoon Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
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Activity 5D
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5.5 – Clean work area and dispose of or store surplus and reusable by-products
according to organisational procedures, environmental considerations, and cost
reduction initiatives
By the end of this chapter, the learner should be able to:
➢ Discuss how to clean work area and dispose of or store surplus and reusable by-
products according to organisational procedures, environmental considerations, and
cost reduction initiatives.
Be sure to:
➢ Clean and tidy all work surfaces
➢ Store all tools, equipment and food items in the appropriate place
➢ Wash all cloths, towels and items of work clothing (such as aprons, hats, gloves,
hairnets etc.).
Of course, to complete your cleaning duties effectively, you will need access to various cleaning
materials and equipment.
Cleaning materials and equipment include (but are not limited to):
➢ Cleaning cloths
➢ Commercial cleaning and sanitising agents and chemicals for cleaning commercial
kitchens, equipment and food storage areas
➢ Separate hand basin and antiseptic liquid soap dispenser for hand washing
➢ Tea towels.
This means:
➢ Knowing when ingredients and food are past or before their usability date
Unless you have been instructed to use your own initiative, the important thing to remember when
disposing of waste food or storing surplus and reusable food is to listen to instructions and follow
organisational procedures, considering environmental considerations and cost reduction policies.
Photo sources:
Close-Up Photo Of Person Cleaning The Table Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
Close-Up Photo Of Chopped Chives Free Stock Photo (pexels,com)
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Activity 5E
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Summative Assessments
At the end of your Learner Workbook, you will find the Summative Assessments.
This includes:
➢ Skills Activity
➢ Knowledge Activity
➢ Performance Activity.
This holistically assesses your understanding and application of the skills, knowledge and performance
requirements for this unit. Once this is completed, you will have finished this unit and be ready to move
onto the next one – well done!
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References
These suggested references are for further reading and do not necessarily represent the contents of
this unit.
Websites
Guide to Vegetable Broth & Soup: https://www.doesitgobad.com/does-vegetable-broth-go-bad/
A Good Stock Takes Time: Setting Up Your Kitchen for Making Stocks and Broths:
https://www.chelseagreen.com/2018/a-good-stock-takes-time-setting-up-your-kitchen-for-making-
stocks-and-broths/
How to Clarify Stock for Soups to See the Bottom of the Bowl: https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-
to/cooking-basics/how-to-clarify-stock/
Bechamel: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/videos/techniques/how-make-bechamel-white-sauce-video
Cooking Sauces - The 5 Classic Mother Sauces - HubPages. (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://hubpages.com/food/The-5-Classic-Mother-Sauces
Publications
Food Premises and Equipment: https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/publications/documents/3_2_3.pdf,
Photo sources:
Title page: Pouring Sauce on Plated Food Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)
Elements pages: Man Wearing Black Apron Near Two Silver Metal Cooking Pot Free Stock Photo
(pexels.com)
Activity pages: Cooked Food Close-up Photography Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)